The new organisation Carers Trust Epping Forest, Harlow, Havering and Redbridge will support over 800 carers, providing over 125,000 hours of care through a combined staff of 120.

Kathy Verges has led Crossroads Care Havering for over 20 years and will be CEO of the new organisation.

She said: “I am honoured to have the opportunity to lead the merged organisation as we bring together two successful groups who share the same culture, values and passion for helping carers.

“It is truly inspiring to work with, and for, such committed and motivated people.”

The charity provides care for people both inside and outside the home and supports people of all ages and with any disability or health condition including the elderly, frail and people living with dementia.

Henry and Barabra Constable, both 78 and from Chadwell Heath, receive support from Crossroads Care Havering for their daughter who has cerebral palsy.

Henry said: “It’s a wonderful organisation and I am sure it will continue to be after the merger.

“They take our daughter out once a month meaning she is able to take part in a range of activities, whatever she chooses to do.

“She’s also had the same carer for five years now so it goes beyond care and into friendship. Kathy is absolutely brilliant and the charity is simply the best.”

With a growing number of people becoming carers at some point in their lives as well as increase in the projected number of people diagnosed with illnesses such as dementia, Kathy feels the merger is the right move.

She said: “This will allow us to better meet the ongoing challenges that face carers and all those who support them in these difficult financial times, with a more robust and efficient organisation.”

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